EAST LANSING - Michigan State junior Andrew Maxwell has settled into his role as starting quarterback and a team leader six games into the 2012 season.

"I feel comfortable," Maxwell said. "I really do. I feel comfortable out there. It doesn't feel overwhelming. It doesn't feel like I'm out of place. It feels like I'm where I'm supposed to be, and that comes from being comfortable in a system and being comfortable with the guys around me, being comfortable with the coaches. When you're playing a game, you're playing with the people that are close to you. You're playing with your best friends, and if you go out and enjoy it and play for each other, that will be a more enjoyable experience for everybody, including myself."

Maxwell ranks second among Big Ten quarterbacks in passing yards per game (238.0). The first-year starter has completed 127 of his 225 pass attempts for 1,428 yards and six touchdowns with three interceptions.

Maxwell has not thrown an interception since Michigan State's season opener against Boise State.